From West Point
By Army West Point Men’s Club Hockey
AMHERST, Mass. — Junior wingers James Delia and Charlie Aronov each scored twice during a 5-0 stretch that lifted the Army West Point Men’s Club Hockey team to a 5-3 victory on Oct. 5 at UMass-Amherst, the 2023 American Collegiate Hockey Association national champion.
“This was a character win. On the road, down 3-0 early in the second period, we could’ve easily packed it in and quit but we didn’t,” Army coach Erik Batewell said. “We dug our heels in and got back to basics.”
Following a scoreless first period, UMass scored three times within the first six minutes of the second period. However, sophomore goalie Liam Monahan shut the door from there as the Black Knights began a sensational comeback on the road to improve to 4-0.
“Our goaltending was superb all night long,” Batewell explained. “The special teams played a huge role in the victory with our top power play unit going 3-for-5. It was a great team effort and a valuable learning experience for the boys. They know that hard work works – sometimes they just need to be reminded.”
Army remains undefeated despite continually playing without multiple injured players, including standout junior defenseman Chris Tamer against UMass.
“It’s next man up mentality,” Aronov said. “Guys are always chomping at the bit, ready for any opportunity that comes their way. We have guys who can play any role, any time. We are sitting at 4-0 because of how versatile and adaptable our guys are.”
Delia scored the first and third goals and Aronov got the second. Freshman Luke Dwyer scored the game-winning tally 7:51 into the third period and Aronov added an insurance goal at 16:52. Delia and Aronov each assisted on a goal for a game-high three points.
Army returns to Super East Collegiate Hockey League play this weekend. The Black Knights host Montclair State on Oct. 11 at Ice Time Sports Complex in Newburgh, and Sacred Heart on Oct. 13 at Tate Rink.
(Originally published at https://www.westpoint.edu/news/sports-and-entertainment-news/army-west-point-mens-club-hockey-rallies-three-down-defeat-umass)
